Tennessee Department of Health: Influenza Activity Rising

news.html

Published December 29th, 2025

Detected March 17th, 2026

Summary

The Tennessee Department of Health has issued a notice regarding rising influenza activity across the state. They are recommending that all individuals six months and older receive an annual flu shot to prevent severe illness and death, especially as cases typically peak in January and February.

View original document View source feed page

What changed

The Tennessee Department of Health has issued a public health notice alerting residents to increasing influenza activity within the state. The notice emphasizes the importance of receiving an annual flu vaccination, particularly for high-risk groups, and provides recommendations for preventing the spread of the virus, such as proper hygiene and staying home when sick. Information on statewide and regional flu activity is available through the department's weekly reports.

While this notice does not impose new regulatory requirements or deadlines, it serves as a strong recommendation from the state's health authority. Regulated entities, particularly healthcare providers, should be aware of the rising flu activity and continue to promote vaccination and preventive measures among their patients and staff. The notice encourages individuals to consult with their healthcare providers regarding flu vaccination. No specific penalties are mentioned for non-compliance with the recommendation.

What to do next

Review current influenza activity reports from the Tennessee Department of Health.
Reinforce recommendations for annual flu vaccination to patients and staff.
Ensure availability of flu vaccines and promote preventive measures.

Source document (simplified)

Influenza Activity on the Rise in Tennessee

Monday, December 29, 2025 | 04:09pm NASHVILLE – Influenza (flu) activity is currently increasing, and it’s important to consider getting a flu shot to protect yourself and those around you. Tennessee typically sees the highest number of seasonal flu cases in January and February each year.

‘’If you haven’t received your annual flu shot, consider doing so now as flu activity is rapidly increasing,’’ said Tennessee Health Commissioner John Dunn. ‘’The flu shot protects against severe disease and death from the virus, and I encourage Tennesseans to talk with their provider.’’

TDH recommends a yearly flu shot for everyone ages six months and older. Pregnant women, infants, the elderly, and people with certain medical conditions are at the highest risk of severe complications from the flu. Typical flu symptoms include fever, cough, congestion, and body aches, and will improve on their own after about a week. If you suspect you or someone in your family has the flu, call your health care provider.

Nationally, 7.5 million illnesses, 105,000 hospitalizations, and 6,300 deaths could be prevented annually if more people chose to get the flu vaccine. To prevent the spread of the flu virus to others, ensure you follow recommended precautions such as proper hygiene, including handwashing, covering your coughs or sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, and staying at home if you are sick.

Information on increasing statewide and regional influenza-like activity is available online in Tennessee’s Weekly Flu Reports. Flu vaccine is available in all county health departments across the state as well as medical clinics and pharmacies.

The mission of the Tennessee Department of Health is to Protect, promote, and improve the health and well-being of all people in Tennessee. Learn more about TDH services and programs at www.tn.gov/health.